Visit Our Sea Otter Sanctuary

Unlike Most Marine Mammals, Sea Otters Don't Have a Layer of Blubber...

...but they do have the thickest fur of all animals.

 

Here are some more otterly cute facts:

 

• Thirteen different species of otter exist all around the world. Some are small river otters, and some are bigger sea otters
• They're hungry animals! Sea otters eat up to 30% of their body weight in food every day
• Sea otters are also clever creatures, they'll use rocks to crack open clams. They carry rocks and store food in the loose skin under their armpits 
• A group of otters are called a Bevy, family, lodge, romp or raft
• Wild male & female sea otters can live up to 10-15 years

What Do Sea Otters Eat?

Sea otters have a varied diet and eat a range of marine invertebrates. Some of the most common foods they eat include sea urchins, clams, mussels, crabs, and fish. Otters are known for using rocks as tools to crack open the hard shells of the fish they eat. They can consume up to 30% of their body weight daily, which is essential for their survival. Wondering what do otters need to survive? An abundant food source, clean water, and healthy habitats are crucial to ensuring the safety of this incredible species.

 

Where Do Otters Live?

Sea otters are primarily found along the northern Pacific coasts, from Alaska to California. They inhabit coastal waters, kelp forests, and rocky shorelines, using kelp as anchors while they rest. They are important habitants of these environments where they control the populations of sea urchins and shellfish. 

 

While sea otters live in the ocean, their relatives, river otters, live in freshwater environments such as rivers, lakes, and wetlands. Wondering are there sea otters in the UK? Yes! There are around 8,000 otters on the west coast of Scotland.

 

Are Sea Otters Dangerous

While sea otters are not typically dangerous, they are wild animals and may become defensive if they feel threatened. It's essential to avoid approaching injured or lost otters. Instead, contact local wildlife authorities if you encounter one. Although sea otters are generally non-aggressive, maintaining a respectful distance is always advised to keep both humans and otters safe.

 

What is a Group of Otters Called?

A group of otters is called a raft. Sea otters often hold hands while floating on the water to stay together and avoid drifting apart. This unique behaviour helps them remain connected in strong currents. Whether resting or playing, seeing a raft of sea otters is an amazing sight in nature. 

 

Sea Otter Size

Male sea otters are generally larger than females. Sea otter size for males can reach up to 1.5 metres (5 feet) in length and weigh between 22 to 45 kg (49 to 99 lbs). Females are smaller, typically growing to about 1.2 metres (4 feet) long and weighing between 14 to 33 kg (31 to 73 lbs). Understanding the differences in size between male and female sea otters can help researchers and visitors appreciate their physical characteristics.

 

What’s the Difference Between a River Otter vs Sea Otter​?

There are various types of otters. The main difference between river otters and sea otters is their habitat and size. Sea otters are larger, living in coastal waters, while river otters are smaller and live in freshwater environments like rivers and lakes. Sea otters typically float on their backs, while river otters swim on their bellies. Additionally, sea otters have thicker fur to keep warm in colder waters, while river otters are more agile on land.

A UK first - Sea Otters!

Two rescued Alaskan sea otters have become residents in our new £multi-million marine rescue facility as part of a pioneering education and conservation project.

 

After their epic journey from Alaska to Birmingham, the pair have been settling into their new home under the watchful eye of our Otter Care Team. After their time in quarantine, the cuddly pair are now ready to meet the public!

 

<Visit our Rescue Facility>

 

These Endearing Creatures

Are an important poster boy species for conservation and the escalating climate crisis. The hope is for the pair to become ambassadors for not only their species but also their wild cousins. We'll be showing guests how we can all contribute to conserving their environment - one paw at a time.

 

Why Are Sea Otters Endangered?

The Otter Project and Sea Otter Foundation Trust are excellent resources for learning about the dangers that sea otter populations face. The charities describe how sea otters are endangered mainly due to habitat destruction, pollution, and past overhunting for their fur. Oil spills are particularly harmful because they damage the otters' fur, making it difficult for them to stay warm. Overfishing also reduces their food supply, and natural predators like sharks and orcas pose additional threats.

To help protect sea otters, supporting conservation efforts, reducing pollution, and promoting sustainable fishing practices are crucial. These actions can help restore their habitats and ensure their survival.

Watch Ozzy and Ola's Journey

Following a two-and-a-half-year gruelling guardianship application, the financing of care and major investment in a brand new purpose-built facility over in the United Kingdom to meet strict animal welfare requirements, the United States Fishing & Wildlife Service (USFWS) have granted a permit and SEA LIFE Centre Birmingham have welcomed the very first pair of sea otters to the UK in 2020. Why not book your tickets to meet the sea otters now?